The Farm Italy is Now Open at Mohegan Sun, Completing the Stunning Transformation of the Former Ballo Italian Space

The Farm Italy is Now Open at Mohegan Sun, Completing the Stunning Transformation of the Former Ballo Italian Space

UNCASVILLE, CT (May 30, 2025) – A beloved culinary landmark at Mohegan Sun enters an exciting new chapter as The Farm Italy Mohegan Sun officially opens today at 4:00pm. Located in the heart of Casino of the Earth, the celebrated Ballo Italian space has been completely reimagined—ushering in a new era of Italian dining under the continued leadership of restaurateur John Tunney and his acclaimed culinary, design, and operations team. Reservations can be made at mohegansun.com/farmitaly!

While the architectural grandeur of Ballo Italian remains intact, The Farm Italy Mohegan Sun reveals a breathtaking transformation—evoking the rustic elegance of an Italian countryside estate. With artful décor, custom designed lighting, imported trees and a refined menu steeped in the traditions and seasonality of Italian cuisine, the new concept blends sophistication with rustic elegance. The space will also feature a stunning bar and dining space that offers a dramatic visual experience, anchored by a series of towering, gold-accented archways casting a warm glow over the marble bar and  custom white-upholstered barstools that invite guests to linger. The dining area is framed by arched colonnades, textured brick walls, and strategically placed greenery. The architecture subtly divides the space, creating cozy alcoves and natural partitions that lend a sense of privacy without isolation—ideal for intimate dinners, quiet conversations, or semi-private gatherings.

“The transformation of Ballo Italian into The Farm Italy Mohegan Sun is a true evolution of everything we love about Italian food and hospitality,” says owner John Tunney. “We’ve taken the passion and spirit behind The Farm Italy and infused it into a space that has meant so much to so many. It’s not just a redesign—it’s a reawakening. We’re beyond excited to welcome guests into this next chapter.”

Whether guests are hosting a celebratory dinner, an executive event, or a discreet evening out, this space has been designed to evoke comfort, connection, and luxury in every detail. This is more than a restaurant—it’s a retreat and a showpiece of elevated hospitality.

With its unwavering commitment to scratch-made dishes, seasonal ingredients, and genuine hospitality, The Farm Italy has earned national acclaim—including recognition as one of OpenTable’s Top 100 Restaurants in the U.S. A standout on New York’s dining scene, The Farm Italy now joins Mohegan Sun’s exclusive new culinary lineup, neighboring its recently opened sister concept in the Casino of the Earth, The Shed Restaurant—an all-day brunch destination that has quickly become a must-visit at Mohegan Sun.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled to unveil the new Farm Italy Mohegan Sun” -said Jeff Hamilton, President of Mohegan Sun. “Classic BALLO dishes like the Chicken Parmesan The Fritto Misto remain, while there is a variety of new and desliscoius scratch-made options on the menu. Combine that with the beautiful transformation that has brought Farm Italy Mohegan Sun to life, and you have a truly special and refreshed dining experience that we’re really excited about.”

At the heart of the experience is a menu rooted in tradition and elevated by craft. Each meal is recommended to begin with the house-baked bread, served warm and finished with premium olive oil, fragrant herbs, and sea salt. Signature dishes include:

  • Branzino – A delicate filet served with burro bianco, lemon, and broccolini.
  • Pappardelle Bolognese – Rich beef ragù over fresh pappardelle with a dollop of ricotta.
  • Chicken Parmesan – Crispy house-made cutlet with mozzarella, pecorino, pomodoro, and fresh basil.
  • Cacio e Pepe – A Roman classic featuring bucatini, cracked black pepper, and aged pecorino.
  • Double R Ranch NY Strip Steak – A 16 oz. prime steak finished with saba char.

The bar program showcases a curated list of signature cocktails and elevated mocktails, featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients and Italian-inspired flair. Highlights include:

  • Blood Orange Margarita – Fresno chili-infused tequila with blood orange, lime, and basil salt rim.
  • Nero Old Manhattan – A deep, layered blend of Angel’s Envy bourbon, Amaro di Rucola, amerena cherry and angostura bitters.
  • Strawberry Basil Aperol Spritz – A fresh take on the classic, topped with Prosecco and herbs.
  • farmItaly Lemonade – A fresh summery cocktail with Malfy Limon Gin, Tito’s and Fresh Basil

Favorite Mocktails Include:

  • Espresso Shakerato – Non-Alcoholic: Espresso, demerara syrup, vanilla, fee foam
  • Cucumber Spritz Mocktail – Non-Alcoholic: A light, effervescent blend of cucumber, mint, ginger beer, and soda.

With its elevated cuisine, immersive design, and heartfelt hospitality, The Farm Italy Mohegan Sun is poised to redefine Italian dining in Connecticut.

Reservations are now open and expected to be in high demand. Be among the first to experience this extraordinary culinary destination. For additional information, visit thefarmitaly.com/mohegansun.

The Farm Italy Mohegan Sun will be open for Dinner 7 Days a Week:

Monday – Thursday: 4:00pm – 10:00pm

Friday: 4:00pm – 11:00pm

Saturday: 3:00pm – 11:00pm

Sunday: 3:00pm – 9:00pm

ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN 

Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic Southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, two distinct convention centers, an expo center, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X and Instagram @mohegansun and view us on YouTube

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The Farm Italy to Open at Mohegan Sun, Transforming the Award-Winning Ballo Italian Restaurant

The Farm Italy to Open at Mohegan Sun, Transforming the Award-Winning Ballo Italian Restaurant

UNCASVILLE, CT (April 15, 2025) – A new era of Italian dining is set to unfold at Mohegan Sun as Ballo Italian Restaurant, the renowned culinary destination located in Casino of the Earth, undergoes a remarkable transformation. Continuing under the visionary leadership of restaurateur John Tunney and his esteemed culinary, design and operations team, Ballo Italian Restaurant will be reimagined as The Farm ItalyOpenTable’s Top 100 Restaurants in the U.S.

While the impressive architecture of Ballo Italian Restaurant remains, The Farm Italy Mohegan Sun will prove a stunning transformation—one that transports guests to the rustic elegance of an Italian countryside estate. With inspired décor, striking artwork, breathtaking lighting, and an elevated menu that celebrates Italy’s finest flavors, the experience is poised to be nothing short of extraordinary.

“Transforming Ballo Italian Restaurant into The Farm Italy Mohegan Sun is more than just a name change—it’s the evolution of our passion for Italian cuisine and hospitality,” says owner John Tunney. “We’re bringing the heart and soul of The Farm Italy—handcrafted food, stunning design, and warm, welcoming energy—into a space that’s already meant so much to our guests. I couldn’t be more excited for this next chapter, and to share an even more inspired dining experience with the Mohegan Sun community.”

Hailing from New York, The Farm Italy is part of the esteemed restaurant group behind Ballo Italian Restaurant, The Shed Restaurants, and Besito Mexican Restaurants. Known for its unwavering commitment to seasonal freshness and the artistry of Italian cuisine, The Farm Italy has become one of the most sought-after dining destinations in New York. Now, with its highly anticipated expansion to Mohegan Sun, guests will have the opportunity to indulge in the magic of this coveted reservation.

“What will make Farm Italy Mohegan Sun truly special is its ability to bring forward the flavors of Ballo Italian Restaurant while reimagining and refreshing the venue, and introducing incredible new seasonal dishes as well,” said Jeff Hamilton, President & GM of Mohegan Sun. “We are committed to offering exceptional dining throughout our entertainment destination, and our long and successful partnership with John Tunney is a key part of that reinvigorated strategy. We are thrilled to unveil The Farm Italy Mohegan Sun shortly after Memorial Day Weekend!”

At the heart of The Farm Italy’s menu is a dedication to authentic, house-made dishes crafted from the freshest ingredients. Guests can begin their meal with signature house-baked bread, served warm, drizzled with premium extra virgin olive oil, and topped with a fragrant blend of herbs and flaky sea salt.

The menu showcases a thoughtfully curated selection of handmade pastas and expertly prepared entrées, including:

  • Branzino – A delicate filet, perfectly cooked and served with burro bianco, lemon, and broccolini.
  • Pappardelle Bolognese – Fresh pappardelle pasta paired with a rich beef Bolognese and a dollop of fresh ricotta.
  • Chicken Parmesan – A tender house-made chicken cutlet, coated in crispy breadcrumbs and topped with mozzarella, pecorino, pomodoro sauce, and fresh basil.
  • Cacio e Pepe – The essence of Italian simplicity, featuring bucatini pasta, cracked black pepper, and aged pecorino.
  • Double R Ranch NY Strip Steak – A 16 oz. prime steak, cooked to perfection and finished with a saba char.

Expertly Crafted Cocktails & Mocktails

The Farm Italy’s bar program is designed to complement its culinary offerings, featuring expertly crafted cocktails and mocktails that set the stage for unforgettable moments. With a focus on premium spirits, fresh ingredients, and innovative techniques, each drink is a celebration of Italian hospitality and craftsmanship.

Signature selections include:

  • Blood Orange Margarita – Fresno-infused Don Julio Blanco, fresh blood orange purée, lime, and a house-made basil salt rim.
  • Nero Old Fashioned – Angel’s Envy bourbon, Amaro di Rucola, cherry, and Angostura bitters.
  • Strawberry Basil Aperol Spritz – Strawberry-infused Aperol, topped with extra dry Prosecco, fresh basil, and strawberries.
  • Cucumber Spritz Mocktail – A refreshing non-alcoholic option featuring muddled cucumber and mint, ginger beer, and soda.

With its commitment to exceptional food, warm hospitality, and a transportive dining experience, The Farm Italy at Ballo Italian Mohegan Sun is set to redefine Italian dining in Connecticut. Reservations will be in high demand—be among the first to experience this extraordinary culinary destination.

For this transformation, the Ballo Italian Restaurant space will temporarily close on May 5th and re-open in late May as The Farm Italy Mohegan Sun.

To find out more visit TheFarmItaly.com/mohegansun 

ABOUT MOHEGAN SUN

Owned by Mohegan, Mohegan Sun is one of the largest, most spectacular entertainment, gaming, dining and shopping destinations in the United States. Situated on 185 acres along the Thames River in scenic Southeastern Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two unique casinos, 1,600 deluxe hotel rooms, two world-class spas, two distinct convention centers, an expo center, a golf course, over 70 shops, restaurants and bars as well as three award-winning entertainment venues including a 10,000-seat Arena. Mohegan Sun is within easy access of New York, Boston, Hartford and Providence and located 15 minutes from the museums, antique shops and waterfront of Mystic Country. More information is available by calling 1.888.226.7711 or visiting mohegansun.com. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X and Instagram @mohegansun and view us on YouTube

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